3D Printing

This is one of the hottest and most exciting advancements in design which offers a cost effective and efficient way to manufacture and create prototypes. 3D printing or additive manufacturing is used to make three-dimensional objects by successive printing of layers of material under computer control.

The most popular materials used are plastics including; PLA (Polyactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol Plastic). Other materials such as powders, resins, titanium, stainless steel, bronze and ceramics can also be used.

The academic experts can work with you to create your prototype by guiding you through the design process, generating your digital design file and producing your final product.

If this sounds like the type of equipment and expertise you are looking for this map shows where in Scotland you can find 3D printing and additive manufacturing facilities.